My husband is now working a job where he is gone for 4-5 weeks, home for 1 week. We own (ok, are buying) our house. Currently, I share this home with two elderly felines and two canine companions. The dogs are both medium-sized. They usually get walks every day, but I'm not perfect. I should also add I work 3-4 days a week, but this could change in the spring and I might be working more hours.

I've wanted a third dog for awhile, but recognize our pets take lots of time, energy & money. We don't plan on living here forever, and the two dogs we have already have done a number on the wood floors. (It's pine, so we'll probably only get one chance to sand it down and make it look like new). Which is to say, adding another pooch to the mix will only wear down the floor more. These are the (admittedly reasonable) reasons hubby's against us adding a third dog to the family. But while we're not rolling in dough, we both work and another pet would be in our budget.

Now that I am basically living alone, --and this will very likely be our situation for 2-4 years-- I know I would feel safer with a third dog- especially a bigger guy/gal. It's not like I live in a high-crime area, but I would def feel better. And while I am certain at least one of my canine companions is pretty protective, neither look very intimidating. (Ironically, the smallest has a very big, scary bark, so there's that).

So how do I talk the better half into this? In my eyes of course, it's a win/win...I feel safer, and of course, I get to rescue a dog. I should add I've been perusing Petfinder more and more often lately...

_________________I once caught the clap from a salty navy bean on shore leave. Damn beans.--Desdemona

Joined: Fri Apr 01, 2011 11:51 amPosts: 8120Location: United States of New England

This may not be exactly the answer you’re looking for but it sounds like your husband’s biggest concern is the floors and from your description it kind of already sounds like the floors are beat to the point where if you want to sell the house you will have to replace them so I guess my thought is one more dog isn’t going to make a huge difference?Do you think you will be able to walk 3 dogs by yourself? I have trouble walking 2 dogs by myself but one of my dogs is crazy. I think your best bet is the “personal protection” angle if he is gone so often.

I walk both the dogs together, but I'll admit that sometimes it's a pain in the asparagus. I rarely take them both if I go for a run; just one at a time. Walking a third one with my other two would be most challenging if we were approached by a dog off leash.

The personal protection angle is indeed the biggest reason I'd like to push for this now. I've let my husband talk me out of it before because of the above mentioned factors, but I know I would feel safer adding a bigger dog to the mix. I guess I already know my best argument, I just need to start seriously talking to him about it.

Good point about the floors, LP. If we have to re-do them anyway, how much difference would another dog really make?

_________________I once caught the clap from a salty navy bean on shore leave. Damn beans.--Desdemona

Dogs don't need to look intimidating to deter a home invader - they just need to be there and make noise. If you already have two medium sized dogs and struggle to keep up with their exercise needs, adding a third will not make life easier for you while your husband is away. Keep in mind, also the added expense of feeding and keeping a larger breed dog, and how much more medications and surgeries can cost for them... It might just be better to get a "beware of dog" sign that shows a menacing looking dog and let the voice of your smaller guy be backup!

That said, if you are dead set on adopting, a mature, low energy big guy that is well mannered on leash and won't be too fussed if your hours increase shouldn't be too hard to find. And you can always get nail caps to help protect your floors.